“Often local success in attracting relocating firms to Houston with an employment base of 100 new jobs is considered a major achievement, but such successes pale in comparison to the 7,200 permanent full-time equivalent jobs created by the Rodeo.
“Often times, promotional efforts to bring growth to Houston are to help beef up the fiscal health of the community. Once again, the Rodeo comes to the plate swinging grand slams. It is doubtful that there has been any relocation to Houston in recent times that has netted local governments in the region over $27 million annually.
“It should be mentioned that Houstonians themselves find the Rodeo a natural setting to promote the city and its offerings. Thousands invite friends and family from all over the nation to visit and see Houston in its splendor during the wonderful spring weather of Azalea season, and of course, to visit the Rodeo.
“The Rodeo returns more gains to Rodeo attendees in terms of personal income than the typical cost of Rodeo tickets. For those that don’t take advantage of the Rodeo experience, theirs is a free ride, receiving a dividend of increased income.
“Finally, add to all of these impacts the sheer enjoyment most of us Houstonians get from attending and participating in the Rodeo each year, and even with the explicit numbers aside, the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo comes out a major winner for Houston year after year.”